BANGOR University’s vision for a new arts and innovation centre comes one step closer to being realised this week as demolition work finally begins.

Theatr Gwynedd will be the first to be demolished, followed closely by the Students’ Union building and Time nightclub, following preparatory work at the Deiniol Road site.

The interiors of the old theatre were ripped out on Monday and Tuesday and a crane is in operation today (Wednesday), to start demolition.

Prof Fergus Lowe, acting vice chancellor of Bangor University, who is leading the project, said: “We are very excited that work has started on such an important project that will be a fantastic asset for Bangor and the surrounding area.

“The whole Pontio team is working closely with Gwynedd Council, other key organisations and local residents to ensure that as little disruption as possible during the demolition and construction processes.

“This is an extremely exciting project for the whole community and beyond, which will bring much needed investment and leisure facilities to the heart of Bangor.

“We plan to commence construction this summer, with the building to due to be completed by the summer of 2012.

“Following the fit-out of specialist equipment, the centre will be able to open its doors to the public in the winter 2012.”

To minimise disruption, local contractors, Jennings Building and Civil Engineering Ltd, are using noise and dust reduction measures, and there are no anticipated road closures or additional traffic lights during the demolition.

They are also liaising closely with local residents throughout the demolition process.

Vigorous recycling strategies will be in place during the whole demolition and construction periods to minimise waste, with the vast majority of material from the demolition of existing buildings being crushed and reused on site.